Becoming a homeowner is exciting, overwhelming, and honestly, a little scary I know this firsthand. When I bought my first home, I thought I had it all figured out: I saved for the down payment, signed the papers, and got the keys. But within weeks, I realized how much more there was to know and do.
So today, I want to help you avoid the mistakes I made by sharing a first-time homeowner checklist covering everything you need to know — from essentials to long-term planning.
Step 1 – Secure Your Home
Change the Locks Immediately
This is non-negotiable. You don’t know how many people have copies of your home’s old keys who were the former owners, contractors, neighbors, who knows? The day after closing, I called a locksmith and had all the locks changed. It gave me peace of mind knowing I was the only one with access.
Set Up a Home Security System
Even if you live in a safe neighborhood, it’s smart to have at least some basic security:
- Install motion-sensor lights around entrances.
- Get a video doorbell or outdoor cameras.
- If you can, consider a full home security system.
I went with a DIY smart home system because it was budget-friendly and easy to install. It alerts me on my phone if anything unusual happens and honestly, it’s saved me a couple of times when packages were delivered.
Step 2 – Get the Right Insurance
Understand What’s Covered
When I bought my first homeowner’s insurance, I thought it covered everything but later I found out flood damage and earthquakes weren’t included! Read your policy carefully.
You might need to purchase additional coverage depending on your area. Talk to your insurance agent, compare quotes, and don’t be afraid to ask, “What’s NOT covered?”
Consider a Home Warranty
A home warranty saved me hundreds in my first year when my water heater unexpectedly died. While insurance covers major disasters, a home warranty helps cover repairs and replacements for systems and appliances things like HVAC, plumbing, and kitchen appliances.
It’s optional, but for first-timers who aren’t handy, it can be a lifesaver.
Step 3 – Check and Update Utilities
Confirm All Utilities Are in Your Name
Before moving in, call your local utility companies water, gas, electric, trash, internet, and cable — and make sure the accounts are transferred. When I moved in, I assumed everything was set up, but surprise! My water got shut off because I hadn’t activated the account. Learn from my mistakes!
Review Energy Usage
Check your thermostat, water heater settings, and appliance energy ratings. Small changes, like setting your water heater to 120°F or installing LED bulbs, can cut costs and save energy.
Step 4 – Perform a Maintenance Check
H3: Inspect Your Home Thoroughly
Walk through your new home and make a list of anything needing attention. Look for:
Leaky faucets or pipes
Cracks in walls or ceilings
Drafty windows or doors
Dirty or clogged HVAC filters
When I moved in, I ignored a tiny ceiling stain — months later, it turned into a major roof leak. If you spot something minor, address it early!
Test Safety Devices
Check that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work. Replace old batteries or outdated devices. Trust me, this is one of those things you don’t want to put off.
Step 5 – Build an Emergency Fund
Plan for Unexpected Costs
One hard truth: homeowners face surprise expenses all the time. It’s not a matter of if, but when.
In my first year, my garage door opener failed, the dishwasher broke, and a tree branch fell on the roof.
Start setting aside a small monthly amount for emergency repairs. Even $50–$100 per month adds up over time and can spare you a lot of stress.
Step 6 – Personalize and Make It Yours
H3: Don’t Rush the Decorating
I made the mistake of trying to decorate my entire house right away. My advice: live in the space for a few months before making big design decisions. Get a feel for how you use each room and what styles you naturally gravitate toward.
Take on Small DIY Projects First
Instead of jumping into major renovations, start with simple upgrades like:
- Painting walls
- Changing cabinet hardware
- Updating light fixtures
These small touches can make your home feel personal and fresh without overwhelming you (or your budget).
Step 7 – Connect with Your Community
Meet Your Neighbors
Introduce yourself to your neighbors early on. They can offer advice about local services, recommend reliable contractors, and even keep an eye on your place when you’re away.
When I first moved in, my neighbor helped me figure out my trash pickup schedule and recommended a fantastic local handyman. Building those connections can make a big difference.
Learn Local Rules and Services
Check your local community’s website for information on:
- Trash and recycling schedules
- Parking rules
- Local utilities and permits
You don’t want to end up with a fine because you left trash cans out on the wrong day (been there, done that).
Final Thoughts
Becoming a homeowner is one of the most rewarding (and challenging) experiences you’ll ever have. While there’s a lot to learn, you don’t have to figure it out overnight.
Start with the basics, take things one step at a time, and give yourself grace. I promise, you’ll look back in a year and be amazed at how much you’ve learned and accomplished.
Welcome to homeownership you’ve got this!
